Some responded to these reports by attacking Muslims and people of Arab descent.

Never mind that Williams was not attacking Muslims but arguing that his own emotional response and generalisation were wrong.

Indeed, that has happened in the last week, when Bosnian Serb forces attacked Muslims attempting to return to the homes from which they were driven.

The report highlighted occasions in which citizens abused and sometimes violently attacked Muslims.

Non-Muslims are not an acceptable target unless they are actively attacking Muslims.

Additionally, Phalange members took hostages and attacked Muslims in East Beirut.

The cleric who received the letter was a member of an organisation known to harass and to attack non-orthodox Muslims.

A number of Hindus have been killed in the continuing unrest, although the militants also have attacked fellow Muslims.

Suicide bombers are attacking Muslims, too.

"We will attack the enemy who attacks Muslims."